Novel Method for the Detection of Aflatoxins

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Aflatoxins occur in a wide variety of foodstuffs in all parts of the world and are a major concern given their acute toxicological effects in humans. Edinburgh Biosciences Ltd and Heriot-Watt University have agreed on a collaboration to apply novel developments in spectroscopic design to investigate aflatoxins. Using the latest developments in Light Emitting Diode (LED) and interference filter technology, the partners seek to develop a low-cost, easy to use, portable spectrometer designed to test for aflatoxins in situ. The proposed instruments will provide the sensivity required (ppb) to determine the presence of aflatoxins below the Maximum Residue Levels required by the EU which has the most stringent requirements of any regulatory body.The instrument is intended to screen for the presence of aflatoxins at all stages in the supply chain, from the farmer to the final producer. By the end of the project, EBS and HWU expect to have developed a prototype instrument, tested in field trials of a variety of different raw materials.